SC disqualifies Nawani brothers from contesting elections

The Supreme Court (SC) has disqualified Nawani brothers from contesting election for defaulting on payment of water bills.

The court however granted Athar Minullah, counsel for the Nawani brothers, plea against lifelong disqualification of petitioners.

The SC said the other points raised in the petition would be decided after the elections. Notices have been issued to the respective parties. The hearing in this regard will be conducted after three weeks.

The SC while barring Rashid Akbar Khan Nawani and his brother Saeed Akbar Khan Nawani from contesting election from Bhakkar’s NA-74 and PP-49 respectively declared them disqualified ruling that this decision stood implemented until May 11.

Justice Jawwad S Khawaja remarked all should be allowed to contest polls but those who looted public’s wealth.

The justice said, “The SC has to do its own job. Asking questions is our right. The bill these brothers owe amounts to Rs 669,000…”

Minullah said the case would affect the future of the petitioners.

Justice Khawaja said, “Think about the future of the country.”

Minullah said the rival candidate of the petitioner was also defaulter.

Justice Ejaz Afzal said, “We have to see the law. The matter would have been different had they deposited the amount in time. These outstanding dues were required to be paid in the perspective of the polls.”